Weekly Immigration News Roundup: May 13

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers her insights on the latest headlines.

USCIS proposed adding employment and benefits questions to address change form

A Federal Register notice reveals USCIS wants to collect employment, schooling, and public benefits data through Form AR-11. The proposal is open for public comment through July 6, 2026, and has not yet taken effect.

Urizar: “The scope of information requested is notable, as it suggests even small procedures like address changes will now be further scrutinized by immigration agents. Foreign nationals should monitor this closely and consider submitting public comments.”

DHS student visa duration limit rule advanced to final review

The proposed rule, which would cap F and J visa stays at four years, has reached the last step before it goes into effect. An effective date is not yet confirmed, but late summer or early fall 2026 is anticipated.

Urizar: “While the final version of this rule isn’t guaranteed approval, students should begin reaching out to their attorneys and international university offices and start reviewing their timelines now. Proactive planning is the best protection against mid-program disruptions.”

USCIS codified officer authority to deny petitions with invalid signatures

An interim final rule published May 11 codifies the federal agency’s ability to deny already-accepted petitions if a signature is later found to be invalid. Filing fees may not be returned in those cases.

Urizar: “This fits into a broader USCIS trend of scrutinizing filings more closely and enforcing procedural requirements more strictly. The biggest takeaway from this particular rule is that already-accepted petitions can be denied if a signature is later determined to be invalid, which means one small mistake could result in months of lost progress.”

Deferred action is tightened under new USCIS policy update

New guidance says deferred action will be treated as an extraordinary, case-by-case use of prosecutorial discretion.

Urizar: “Now more than ever, individuals should consult with an experienced immigration attorney before filing to fully understand the risks, eligibility requirements, and the potential impact a request may have on their overall immigration history.”